Well I am not sure but they would have to have a broker who would sell stock that they dont own. Cant do it thru online account for instance. If I try to sell thru my account at say TD and I dont have any stock or enuff stock to sell they computer will not allow me to sell. It is the same as trying to buy stock. IF there isnt enuff money in the account then you cant buy it. I cant see a broker putting himself in that position cause the penalties would be rather stuff if they were caught. I am sure the Roy Rogers would be able to explain this but I dont know if he is on line at the moment